One of the most exciting discoveries we made from a trip to New Zealand last year. Coal Pit is located in the Gibbston Valley sub region of Central Otago. Perfumed with violets, the nose is lifted and aromatic. Vibrant mid palate of black doris plum, wild herb, coffee and cassis backed by silky tannins and well integrated spicy oak. Take our word for it, you will not regret it..

This 20ha vineyard was planted on red clay loam soil at Woori Yallock in 2001 by Lou Primavera, with whom Giant Steps has a long-standing grape-supply relationship. Pinot Noir (114, MV6 and G8V3 clones) grown here on the north and north east facing slopes at 230m is noted for its complex structure and pronounced perfume. The 114 and MV6 are fermented as whole bunches in open vats, while the G8V3 is destemmed, given a long cold-soak and fermented separately to enhance its aromatic contribution. All ferments use indigenous yeasts and the whole-bunch components are periodically foot-stomped to release additional juice. The wines are pressed to 228 litre, French barriques (about 8% new) for 11 months before blending and bottling without fining or filtration.

An ethereal Pinot Noir, it has a nose of violets, boysenberry, plum, black olive and vanilla. Telling the story of the vintage, it is sweet-fruited and pretty with cherry,raspberry and blackberry, along with savoury tapenade and a touch of char and spice. Possessing talcy tannins and lively acidity, complexity builds mid-palate and it has a long, harmonious finish.

JEAN-NOEL GAGNARD Cuvee L'Estimee , Chassagne-Montrachet

Pegasus Bay is a small family owned winery producing some of New Zealand's best wines, this Pinot and a stunning Sauvignon Blanc Semillon are amongst them. A deep, compelling and multi-faceted Pinot Noir it displays supple, ripe tannins. Drink now or lay it down.

A dense core of dark cherries, charred oak, notes of star anise and cinnamon. Bold yet pliable tannins, fine tension, minerality and a structure defined by length and elegance. excellent with mature steaks and game.

The Fromm Vineyard Pinot Noir Australia 2021 from Marlborough is a true expression of the terroir and expertise of the renowned Fromm Winery in New Zealand. Its vibrant ruby red hue entices the senses, hinting at the intensity and depth of flavors that await. On the nose, delicate aromas of ripe cherries and currants mingle with subtle notes of earth and spice. On the palate, the wine is velvety smooth, with layers of red fruit, dark chocolate, and a touch of smokiness. The tannins are well-integrated, providing a balanced and lingering finish. This vintage showcases the quality and potential of Marlborough's cool climate for producing world-class Pinot Noir. Savor this wine now or allow it to develop further with age. Fromm Vineyard Pinot Noir Australia 2021 is a must-try for any wine connoisseur.

This has the intensity and depth of flavour the Central Otago region is becoming renowned for. Mocha spice, blood plums and dark cherry characters with a seamless, silky texture and fine tannins that will see this develop for several years yet. 'Making good use of the Gibbston, Lowburn and Bendigo sub-regions of Central Otago, this readily available, quality pinot noir is medium-bodied with rhubarb and cranberry fruit. These silky-on-palate fruit aspects are lifted with hints of graphite minerals.' - 92 Points, Courier Mail, Brisbane, 14 Sep 2013, by Alan Hunter.